The Fall 2012 New York Fashion Week shows were jam-packed with trend after trend. Here are some sure-fire tips on how to wear them without entering the dreaded and dangerous DON’T zone. We all know it’s a tricky line to toe…
DO dress up your cozy knits
On the runways, cozy sweaters were given a glam update when paired with dazzling skirts and silky printed pants. DON’T be shy! Mix rustic sweaters with your most dance-floor-ready bottoms. DO stick to similar colors to make the pieces feel more natural together.
DON’T skip the statement collar
The bedazzled collar continues to thrive as a trend on and off the runways. We love it because it makes any outfit look polished! To save a bit of money, DO find detachable collars on sites like Etsy or even DIY one! DON’T worry about looking too trendy. Stick to plain tops and knits for a slightly more toned-down look.
DON’T save bright colors for spring
Donna Karan reminded us of this age-old technique for making bright, cheery color work in cold weather: add black! DON’T forget to update your stash of black tights at the beginning of the season. A shiny, no-pills pair makes an outfit look so much more expensive. DO balance the ratio of black and bright color by experimenting with accessories, outerwear and shoes.
DO fall back in love with the navy blue peacoat
We heard “the peacoat is the new parka”. DO look for versions with big, exaggerated collars for extra oomph. DON’T be afraid to invest in this trend. Even when the moment ends, the peacoat will never look out of style.
DON’T be afraid to do head-to-toe pattern
Head-to-toe patterns, particularly florals, were a trend on the catwalks this season. Modern cuts and fabrics make it look way cute and not at all dated. DON’T skip the shoes! When we said head-to-toe, we meant it! DO break the look down and wear it with other print-free items in your wardrobe for maximum return on your trendy investment.
DO add wine colors to your fall wardrobe
Dark red and purple shades were a big statement this season. DO find the shade that suits your skin tone. Brick reds look great on warm skin tones, for example, while bluish plums look great on cool ones. DON’T forget to mix wine colors with autumnal brights in addition to neutrals. Mustard, cobalt and emerald green can be especially chic.
DON’T ditch the peplum trend just yet
The peplum was one of the most wearable trends of the spring 2012 season, so it’s a good thing it stayed strong for fall 2012. DO let this cute detail take the place of accessories for a simple-yet-strong nighttime look. DON’T limit yourself to dresses and skirts. Pants and tops look chic with a coordinating peplum too!
DON’T estimate the power of pointy pumps
Pointy pumps feel fresher than ever for fall, especially when rendered in shiny, slinky fabrics. DO wear these sexy shoes with cropped pants, but DON’T do them with wide-leg jeans. Sadly, these two fab pieces just never quite work together.
DON’T play it safe with your handbag
Handbags were large and in charge this season, mimicking outfits in color and pattern and mixing unlikely combinations of hardware and material. DO follow Tory Burch’s lead and opt for a classic shape with a wild design. The bag will make a statement but never feel too trendy. DON’T be limited by your budget. Grab your most glam clutch and wear it during the day for a free-and-easy way to try out this trend.
So, there ya have it – you’re all schooled on fall fashion for 2012. Let us know what your fave fashion trend is for this season. Share with us on Facebook and Twitter. We love hearing all about what YOU love!